Sex, Consent & Connection: How Non-Monogamy Really Works | Ep. 122 (Part 2)

In this follow-up to Part 1, I continue my candid conversation with licensed professional counselor and AASECT-certified sex therapist Kelvin Pace , diving even deeper into what consensual non-monogamy really looks like in practice. From swinging to polyamory to kink, we unpack the myths, labels, and lived realities behind open relationships. Kelvin explains why communication and consent—not structure—define success, and why non-monogamous relationships can often be just as loving and committed as traditional ones. We also explore the overlap between kink and CNM, how the military became part of swinging lore, and the importance of sex-positive therapy that challenges bias instead of pathologizing pleasure. Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome back & why you should listen to Part 1 first 00:58 – Do open marriages usually end? 02:03 – Swinging vs. polyamory: orientation or play? 04:25 – The many forms of consensual non-monogamy 06:10 – How kink overlaps (and doesn’t) with CNM 08:02 – The biggest myths about non-monogamy 10:10 – Therapy, bias, and the importance of consent 12:05 – Parenting and openness about sexuality 14:00 – Did swinging really start in the military? 15:22 – Kelvin’s quick-fire questions: definition, orgasm, fantasy 17:00 – Where to find Kelvin Want a deeper look? Watch the full episode on YouTube for a more visual experience of today’s discussion. This episode is best enjoyed on video—don’t miss out! Karen Bigman , a Sexual Health Alliance Certified Sex Educator, Life, and Menopause Coach, tackles the often-taboo subject of sexuality with a straightforward and candid approach. We explore the intricacies of sex during perimenopause, post-menopause, and andropause, offering insights and support for all those experiencing these transformative phases. This podcast is not intended to give medical advice. Karen Bigman is not a medical professional. For any medical questions or issues, please visit your licensed medical provider. Looking for some fresh perspective on sex in midlife? You can find me here: Email: karen@taboototruth.com Website: https://www.taboototruth.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taboototruth YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@taboototruthpodcast About the Guest: Kelvin Pace graduated with a master’s in clinical psychology from the University of Alaska Anchorage in 2009. He is a licensed professional counselor and supervisor and an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist and Supervisor. He is the owner of KpaceCounseling, LLC in Anchorage, Alaska. Kelvin works with couples and individuals dealing with sexual or relationship issues that include low desire, anxiety surrounding sex, and infidelity. His current focus is on mindfulness-based interventions to manage sexual concerns, working with individuals and couples either in or looking to explore non-traditional relationship orientations such as consensual/ethical non-monogamy. Connect with Kelvin Pace: Website : kpacecounseling.net Instagram: @kpace37 Facebook: @kpacecounselingLLC Phone: 907-519-2989 Email: kpacecounseling@gmail.com Karen Bigman, a Sexual Health Alliance Certified Sex Educator, Life, and Menopause Coach, tackles the often-taboo subject of sexuality with a straightforward and candid approach. We explore the intricacies of sex during perimenopause, post-menopause, and andropause, offering insights and support for all those experiencing these transformative phases. This podcast is not intended to give medical advice. Karen Bigman is not a medical professional. For any medical questions or issues, please visit your licensed medical provider. Looking for some fresh perspective on sex in midlife? You can find me here: Email: karen@taboototruth.com Website: https://www.taboototruth.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taboototruth YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@taboototruthpodcast Substack: https://karenbigman.substack.com Take control of your pleasure with my Pleasure Playbook , filled with tips to help you connect with your body and enhance intimacy. Download it now at www.taboototruth.com/pleasureplaybook . Take control of your pleasure with my Pleasure Playbook, filled with tips to help you connect with your body and enhance intimacy. Download it now at www.taboototruth.com/pleasureplaybook . ⏩ FREE: 10 TIPS EVERY MAN NEEDS TO KNOW ABOUT THE FEMALE O https://www.taboototruth.com/pleasureplaybook 🚨 Head to https://www.ooyes.love and use code TABOO20 for 20% off at checkout! 💋 Hotter, Wilder, Wiser | You’ve mastered everything else in life — now master pleasure! https://www.taboototruth.com/hotter-wilder-wiser